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BIS CERTIFICATION FOR PACKAGED DRINKING WATER IS 14543

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By Ritika Rathor

BIS CERTIFICATION FOR PACKAGED DRINKING WATER IS 14543

Overview of BIS Certification for Packaged Drinking Water

BIS stands for the Bureau of Indian Standards. It is the national standard body of India. It was established under the BIS Act of 2016. The primary purpose of BIS is to promote the harmonious development of standardization, marking, and quality certification activities for various goods. When it comes to selling packaged drinking water or natural mineral water in India, it becomes imperative to comply with the specified standards set by BIS. Obtaining certification from BIS is essential in demonstrating that the water is safe and meets the government's mandated requirements. 

Standard for Packaged Drinking Water

The sale of packaged drinking water and natural mineral water in India is regulated by the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulation of 2011. According to these regulations, packaged drinking water must adhere to the standards specified in IS 14543:2016, while packaged natural mineral water must meet the standards outlined in IS 13428:2005. To ensure compliance with these standards, both packaged drinking water and natural mineral water must undergo certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The BIS Certification Mark is a requirement, and it signifies that the product has met the necessary standards and is safe for consumption. It is prohibited to manufacture, sell, or display packaged drinking water or natural mineral water without this certification mark.

Requirements for Packaged Drinking Water

Packaged drinking water must meet specific requirements outlined in IS 14543:2016, a standard designed for bottles, jars, and similar containers. The standard establishes limits for various factors to ensure the safety of the water. It sets limits for physical parameters such as Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and Turbidity, ensuring clear water with an appropriate level of dissolved solids. 

Microbiological parameters are also addressed, with limits set for contaminants like E. coli, yeast, and mold to guarantee the absence of harmful bacteria and fungi. Chemical parameters, including pH, are considered as well, with limits defined to ensure the waterfalls are within a safe range for consumption. 

Additionally, the standard addresses the presence of pesticides and radioactive residues, establishing limits to safeguard against harmful levels of these substances. By adhering to these requirements, packaged drinking water can provide consumers with safe and high-quality water for their hydration needs.

Testing Procedures for Packaged Drinking Water

Testing procedures for packaged drinking water involve several key steps. 

1. A well-equipped laboratory is necessary to conduct tests according to Indian standards. The laboratory should have the required equipment and facilities to perform accurate and reliable testing. 

2. It is important to keep comprehensive test records, documenting the analysis and test results. These records should be maintained in approved forms and made available upon request by BIS for review and verification. 

3. Quality control measures should be implemented, including the use of Statistical Quality Control methods and calibration control for instruments and equipment. This ensures the accuracy and consistency of test results. 

4. The Standard Mark, indicating compliance with all specification requirements, should be applied to the label or pouch of the bottle/container. This mark serves as an assurance of quality and conformity to the applicable standards.

Lastly, the source water used in the production of packaged drinking water should be initially tested for various parameters such as color, odor, taste, turbidity, pH, total dissolved solids, and microbiological and chemical requirements. This includes testing for toxic elements, pesticide residues, and radioactive residues. By conducting these comprehensive tests, the quality and safety of packaged drinking water can be ensured, providing consumers with a reliable and trustworthy product

Packaging and Marking Requirements

 
When it comes to packaging and marking requirements for packaged drinking water, it is essential to adhere to the specifications outlined in clause 3.2, clause 5.1, clause 6, and Annex B of IS 14543:2016. These specifications define the guidelines for the packaging process. Pouches, bottles, and containers should be supplied with suitable secondary packaging as agreed upon between the purchaser and supplier.
In terms of marking requirements, certain information must be clearly and permanently provided on each bottle, container, label and, ordirectly printed on the pouch. 
 

This information includes details such as

 
1. The product name
2. The name and full address of the processor (manufacturer)
3. Brand name (if applicable)
4. Batch or code number
5. Date of processing/packing
6. Treatment of disinfection (if any) 
7. Best before date
8. Net quantity
9. Storage instructions
10. Any other information required by the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodity) Rules, 2011 and the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labeling) Regulations 2011.  
11. The recycling symbol as per IS 14535 
 
These marking requirements ensure that the packaged drinking water is clearly labeled and provides essential information to consumers.
ISI Mark and BIS License
 
BIS grants manufacturers a license to use the ISI Mark, which signifies compliance with applicable Indian standards. It's important to note that BIS licenses are only provided to the factory or manufacturer of finished products, not to distributors or retailers. If a manufacturer operates multiple factories at different geographical locations, separate applications must be filed for each product and factory. 
 

To get the License the requirements should be fulfilled 

 
1. Manufacturer should own a laboratory fully equipped with product testing equipment as well as qualified quality control personnel to test the product in accordance with the applicable ISS.
 
2. All production machinery and testing facilities should be located on the factory premises as per ISS norms and respective SIT.
 
3. It is essential that all procedures, from receiving raw materials to final packing, are completed within the same factory. If any outsourcing is required, clearance from the Bureau may be requested 
 
The technical guidelines are available for all products covered under the Product Certification Scheme as 'Product Manuals'. Product manApplicantsude sampling guidelines, a list of test equipment, a Scheme of Inspection and ,Testing (SIT), a description of scope etc. Applicant can refer to this Product Manual for BIS ISI Certification to prepare for the audit and application submission so that chances of rejection can be avoided
 

Procedure for BIS ISI Certification

 
The BIS ISI certification procedure involves several steps. First, the manufacturer submits an application under either the 'Normal Procedure' or the 'Simplified Procedure'. 
 
Next, an on-site factory inspection is conducted by BIS to evaluate the infrastructure, production process, quality control, and testing capabilities. For the Simplified Procedure, having an in-house lab testing facility is mandatory. During the inspection, samples are drawn by an inspector for independent testing at a BIS-approved lab. The applicant must adhere to the Scheme of Testing and make the necessary payment for the marking fee.
 
Finally, upon a successful inspection and satisfactory test report, the manufacturer is granted a CM/L number (Central Mark License). This license allows them to use the ISI mark on their products or packages. The license is valid for one year and can be renewed by submitting a renewal application and paying the prescribed fee.
 

Conclusion

 
BIS certification is essential for ensuring the safety and quality of packaged drinking water in India. Adhering to the specified standards and obtaining certification helps build consumer trust and demonstrates compliance with government regulations. By following the necessary procedures and requirements, manufacturers can ensure their products meet the necessary standards and contribute to a healthier and safer drinking water supply.
 
 
 
 

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